OTTAWA, ONTARIO, OCTOBER 1, 2010-The Honourable Diane Ablonczy, Minister of State (Seniors), on behalf of the Government of Canada, today called on Canadians to celebrate the enormous contributions of Canada's seniors.
"Our government is proud to pay tribute to the significant ways in which seniors are continuing to shape our society with their experience, expertise and knowledge," said Minister of State Ablonczy. "Older Canadians have given so much to our families, our communities and our workplaces. October 1 is our opportunity to celebrate those contributions and to show our appreciation."
On June 16, 2010, Minister of State Ablonczy introduced Bill C-40 in the House of Commons, An Act to establish National Seniors Day. The Bill honours a 2010 Speech from the Throne commitment to support legislation to create National Seniors Day, an annual occasion to honour older Canadians and show our appreciation for their contributions to Canada's history and its future. The Bill was passed in the House of Commons and is currently being considered by the Senate.
Each year, Canada joins the international community on October 1 to celebrate the United Nations' International Day of Older Persons. October 1 is also the day designated in Bill C-40 to be Canada's National Seniors Day, which would afford Canadians the opportunity to recognize and show appreciation for those who helped build our country, continue to shape our future and make a difference in our lives.
National Seniors Day would build on the many concrete measures already introduced by the Government of Canada to improve the well-being and quality of life of Canada's seniors. These efforts include:
- Providing Canadians with almost $70 billion annually through Canada's public pension system;
- Appointing a Minister of State (Seniors)-someone who can bring the concerns of older Canadians to the Cabinet table and stand up on their behalf;
- Providing $2.3 billion annually in tax relief to seniors and pensioners through measures such as income splitting and increasing the Age Credit;
- Providing $400 million over two years through the Affordable Housing Initiative for the construction of housing units for low-income seniors;
- Increasing funding to the New Horizons for Seniors Program in Budget 2010 by $5 million, to $40 million annually. The Program helps seniors use their leadership, energy and skills to benefit communities across Canada; and
- Supporting positive and active aging through the collaborative Age-Friendly Communities Initiative, Canada's Physical Activity Guide to Healthy Active Living for Older Adults, and falls prevention initiatives.
For tips and resources to help celebrate seniors, or for more information on the Government's programs and services for seniors, please visit www.seniors.gc.ca.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Heather Hume
Communications Advisor
Office of Minister of State Ablonczy
613-953-1363
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and
Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
